CONFIRMED: Pope returns to Vale

Tom joined the Shakers, in June 2015, and went on to start 61 games, making a further 22 appearances from the bench and scored a total of 14 goals whilst wearing the Shakers shirt.

As everyone in football knows, Tom is Port Vale through and through, and a die-hard Port Vale supporter. The emotional link that Tom has with Vale Park is not unlike the link that fellow striker Ryan Lowe shares with Bury Football Club and, as such, when the opportunity for Tom to return to Vale Park arose, Bury Football Club could simply not stand in his way.

Tom leaves Gigg Lane with our very best wishes, our gratitude and with a massive pat on the back for a job very well done.

Speaking this afternoon, Chairman Stewart Day said:

“I have to thank Tom for everything he has done for Bury Football Club. I have nothing but total respect for Tom both as a player and as a person. Tom is that character that we badly needed within the club at that time, both on and off the field, and he has helped drive this club forward during the two years he has been with us.

"Tom Pope will always be welcome back at Gigg Lane and at the Carrington training ground. He’s an infectious character that will be very much missed by everyone connected to the club. I personally wish him every success as he continues his career back at his beloved Port Vale.”